Den Chief
A Den Chief helps run a Cub Scout den, working with the den leader and the Cub Scouts or Webelos. It is a common first position of responsibility. It reports to the den leader in the pack and to the Assistant Scoutmaster for the first-year patrol.
Who can be a Den Chief
A Scout who is 12 or older, approved by the Scoutmaster, and ideally First Class or higher. Den Chief training is required; the BSA's Den Chief training is available online, and the council also offers it in person.
What a Den Chief does
- Serves as the activities assistant at den meetings.
- Meets regularly with the den leader to review den and pack meeting plans.
- If working with a Webelos den, helps prepare the Cub Scouts to join Scouts BSA.
- Shows a positive image of Scouting, sets a good example, wears the uniform correctly, and lives by the Scout Oath and Scout Law.
Term and credit
Den Chiefs commit to the school year, and are not eligible for other positions during that time unless the Scoutmaster makes an exception. The Troop generally limits the position to one term, which gives other Scouts a chance and encourages past Den Chiefs to try other positions.
Credit is decided after six months. The Den Chief gives the Den Chief evaluation form to the den leader, who fills it out and returns it. The Den Chief takes it to their Patrol Advisor, who decides on credit with the Advancement Coordinator recording it. Managing this is part of the job. A Den Chief who has earned credit is still expected to finish the school year, so no den is left without help.
How to become one
Talk to your Patrol Advisor. A Scout who was a Den Chief last year needs the Scoutmaster's approval and works through the Den Chief Coordinator.
Credit expectations
The den leader fills out the evaluation form after the Den Chief has served at least four months, and the Patrol Advisor uses it to decide on credit. A Den Chief earns full credit with a total of at least 15 and no 1 in any category. Scoring is explained under How credit works.
| Expectation | Basic (3) | Target (4) | Excels (5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assist at den meetings | 2 to 3 meetings | 4 to 5 meetings | 6 meetings |
| Assist at den activities | 2 activities | 3 activities | 4 activities |
| Meet with the den leader | 2 meetings | 3 meetings | 4 meetings |
| Set an example | Average | Above average | Excellent |
| Scout Spirit | Average | Above average | Excellent |
Commit for at least six months. It is hard on Cub Scouts when a Den Chief comes for a short time just to earn credit, and most Den Chiefs find a full year very rewarding.